July 1 - Spa Valley Railway

We decided that it was time to stay local (not drive around the narrow country lanes) and to take the Spa Valley Railway to Eridge.  The thought was that it would allow both of us to focus on the countryside views instead of dealing with the roadway.  The SVR is run by volunteers who have restored old rail engines,rail cars and the Victorian Era Eridge Rail Station.  The Railway runs on weekends and select other days. 

While the idea was great it turned out the rail line only went 5 miles (with two intermediate stops) and there were minimal views of the countryside (solid trees everywhere).  

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Watch video of train.
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However, at Erbridge they had a small “fair” so we took about 10 minutes to walk around.  

The fair featured some vintage cars…

and old steam powered tractors.

  

The small Victorian Train Station had been lovingly restored and quaint period details.

The station staff were even dressed in period costume.

We then inquired about walking into Erbridge itself.  Turns out it was quite a hike on a busy road so we got back onto the train for the return. 

There was a small market going on at The Pantiles.

We walked the length and then had lunch Chocolatl at The Pantiles.  Their outside seating is under a large shady tree so we really enjoyed the cool shade.  There was also a family of 5 performing right by our restaurant.  The youngest looked about 6 spent most of the time eating and also “played” an odd looking saxophone type instrument.  Dad played guitar, Mom the banjo, big brother a Sousaphone, and sister a violin.  The music was enthusiastic and reasonably good.  The singing left a bit to be desired.  The Sousaphone added an interesting element and the boy (about 12) was pretty good.

We spent a fair amount of time sitting in the shade enjoying the cool breeze and eventually wandered back to the hotel (where the breeze through our window wasn’t nearly as good).

Today was light and we both enjoyed it that way.  We’ve decided we would rather go at a leisurely pace than burn out too quickly.